Back to school poll: Fines and face masks — September 2020

Key findings
The survey asked parents three simple questions about the biggest issues of the day when it comes to education and schooling.
In response to whether or not they planned to send their child back to school full-time at the start of term, over half (55%) of parents answered ‘yes’. This left a sizeable proportion of more than a quarter (26%) who said ‘no’, while a further fifth (20%) remain undecided.
We found that parents were split on the use of face masks during the school day. 42% supported the measure, but 30% opposed it. A further 28% were ineligible to respond because their eldest child is 11 or under, and therefore excluded from wearing face masks.
Finally, on whether or not parents should be fined for not sending their children back to school this term, an overwhelming 78% opposed the measure. 13% supported it and 10% were unsure. The question was posed in response to the government in Westminster’s policy to make attendance compulsory with few exceptions from September.